Top 3 Network Administration Programs in Florida 2025
The University of Tampa
66 Network Administration graduates annually, 85% graduation rate
University of South Florida
92 Network Administration graduates annually, 85% graduation rate
Saint Leo University
62 Network Administration graduates annually, 85% graduation rate
- 1.Florida has 35+ accredited network administration and IT programs across state universities and colleges (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.University of Central Florida ranks #1 in Florida with 73% graduation rate and Microsoft Azure Academy partnership
- 3.Florida network administrators earn median $89,450 annually—8% above the national median (BLS Florida 2024)
- 4.No state income tax in Florida provides 5-7% salary advantage compared to high-tax states
- 5.Major tech employers in Orlando, Miami, Tampa include Lockheed Martin, Citrix, and Magic Leap creating 45,000+ IT jobs
Network Administration Education in Florida
Florida's growing technology sector has created significant demand for skilled network administrators, driving expansion of IT education programs across the state. From UCF's Microsoft-partnered program in Orlando to FIU's VMware training center in Miami, Florida universities offer diverse pathways into network administration careers.
The state's major tech hubs in Orlando, Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville host companies like Citrix, Magic Leap, and numerous government contractors, creating robust job markets for network administration graduates. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our best network administration programs ranking. Students considering broader IT careers should explore our information technology degree hub and review network administrator career outcomes for salary expectations.
Florida's lack of state income tax provides a significant financial advantage, effectively increasing take-home pay by 5-7% compared to high-tax states. Combined with lower cost of living in most Florida metros, network admin graduates often enjoy strong purchasing power despite slightly lower nominal salaries.
Florida Network Administration Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | Industry Partners | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The University of Tampa | Tampa, FL | Private | $31,162 | 85% | — | 75 |
| 2 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Public | $4,559 | 85% | — | 71.6 |
| 3 | Saint Leo University | Saint Leo, FL | Private | $26,240 | 85% | — | 67.8 |
| 4 | Full Sail University | Winter Park, FL | For-Profit | $26,417 | — | — | 64.6 |
| 5 | Miami Dade College | Miami, FL | Public | $1,987 | — | — | 61.9 |
| 6 | St Petersburg College | St. Petersburg, FL | Public | $1,943 | — | — | 60.7 |
| 7 | Pensacola State College | Pensacola, FL | Public | $1,871 | — | — | 59.7 |
| 8 | University of West Florida | Pensacola, FL | Public | $3,735 | 84% | — | 58.7 |
| 9 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | Public | $2,095 | 89% | — | 58.3 |
| 10 | University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL | Private | $58,104 | 94% | — | 58 |
| 11 | Rasmussen University-Florida | Ocala, FL | For-Profit | $13,452 | — | — | 56 |
| 12 | Florida International University | Miami, FL | Public | $4,721 | — | — | 50.5 |
| 13 | Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $22,936 | 84% | — | 48.9 |
| 14 | Hodges University | Fort Myers, FL | Private | $15,000 | — | — | 47.5 |
| 15 | Florida Memorial University | Miami Gardens, FL | Private | $14,274 | 72% | — | 44.4 |
| 16 | Stetson University | DeLand, FL | Private | $54,820 | — | — | 40.8 |
| 17 | DeVry University-Florida | Orlando, FL | For-Profit | $14,392 | — | — | 29.4 |
Top 5 Network Administration Programs in Florida: Side-by-Side
| School | U of South Florida | University of Tampa | Saint Leo | Full Sail | Florida State College at... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $4,559 | $31,162 | $26,240 | $26,417 | $2,095 |
| Graduation Rate | 85% | 85% | 85% | N/A% | 89% |
| Annual Graduates | 92 | 66 | 62 | 67 | 38 |
| Acceptance Rate | 41% | 41% | 72% | N/A | N/A |
| Type | Public | Private | Private | For-Profit | Public |
| Score | 84.1/100 | 78.7/100 | 71.2/100 | 67.8/100 | 67.2/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Network Administration in Florida
Florida offers 17 bachelor's-level network administration programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of South Florida, The University of Tampa, Saint Leo University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $68,474 in the Florida market.
A bachelor's in network administration typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Network Administration Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Network Administration Bachelor's Programs in Florida
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of South Florida | $4,559 | 85% | 92 | 84.1 |
| #2 University of Tampa | $31,162 | 85% | 66 | 78.7 |
| #3 Saint Leo | $26,240 | 85% | 62 | 71.2 |
Top Network Administration Schools for Master's Degrees in Florida
For graduate study, Florida offers 11 master's-level network administration programs. Leading institutions include The University of Tampa, Saint Leo University, University of West Florida. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Florida reaching $127,166 or more.
Top 3 Network Administration Master's Programs in Florida
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Tampa | $31,162 | 85% | 37 | 67.8 |
| #2 Saint Leo | $26,240 | 85% | 42 | 62.9 |
| #3 U of West Florida | $3,735 | 84% | 32 | 62.9 |
Most Affordable Network Administration Colleges in Florida
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable network administration programs in Florida are at Pensacola State College ($1,871/year), St Petersburg College ($1,943/year), Miami Dade College ($1,987/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Florida's competitive tech salaries.
At Pensacola State College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $7,484 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $68,474, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.2 years.
Most Affordable Network Administration Programs in Florida (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Pensacola State College | $1,871 | $7,484 | 0.2 years | Public |
| #2 St Petersburg College | $1,943 | $7,772 | 0.2 years | Public |
| #3 Miami Dade College | $1,987 | $7,948 | 0.2 years | Public |
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,559 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Network Administration Graduates: 92 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 41%
- • Ranking Score: 84.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 92 network administration graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (92 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (41% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USF's Information Assurance and Cybersecurity Management program combines strong practical focus with robust theoretical approaches, emphasizing management of cybersecurity functions in organizations. The program covers comprehensive topics including network security, cloud security, risk management, and cybersecurity governance to develop information assurance and cybersecurity professionals.
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
The University of Tampa
Tampa, FL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $31,162 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Network Administration Graduates: 66 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 41%
- • Ranking Score: 78.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 66 network administration graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 78.7 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (66 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (41% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $26,240 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Network Administration Graduates: 62 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 72%
- • Ranking Score: 71.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 62 network administration graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 71.2 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (62 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (72% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Full Sail University
Winter Park, FL • For-Profit
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $26,417 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Network Administration Graduates: 67 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 67.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 67 network administration graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 67.8 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (67 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Full Sail University offers an accelerated cybersecurity program with monthly start dates and award-winning recognition as a Best Cybersecurity Education Provider. The program combines hands-on experience in vulnerability assessments, threat detection, and incident response with flexible campus and online learning options.
Available Scholarships
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $2,095 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Network Administration Graduates: 38 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 67.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 38 network administration graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.2 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (89%), program size (38 graduates), state salary outcomes ($97,820), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Maintain and optimize organizational networks, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and implement security protocols
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1245Manage servers, databases, and enterprise applications while ensuring system security and performance
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational networks from cyber threats through monitoring, analysis, and incident response
Cloud Solutions Architect
SOC 15-1199Design and implement cloud infrastructure solutions using AWS, Azure, and hybrid environments
IT Manager
SOC 11-3021Lead IT teams, manage technology budgets, and align technology strategy with business objectives
Florida University System Network Administration Programs
Florida's state university system provides multiple pathways into network administration careers, with programs ranging from comprehensive four-year degrees to focused associate degree programs at state colleges.
The State University System of Florida includes major IT programs at UCF, USF, FIU, FAU, and FSU, each with distinct strengths. UCF leads in Microsoft partnerships and Orlando tech connections, while FIU excels in international business applications and VMware training. USF in Tampa offers strong healthcare IT connections, while FAU provides excellent value with Cisco certification pathways.
Florida's state college system also offers valuable network administration programs, particularly for students seeking associate degrees or career-change pathways. Programs at St. Petersburg College, Seminole State, and Valencia College provide affordable entry points with strong industry certification preparation. These programs often feature evening and weekend schedules accommodating working professionals.
Private institutions like Florida Institute of Technology and Nova Southeastern University offer smaller class sizes and specialized training, though at higher tuition costs. These programs often feature more intensive hands-on training and direct industry partnerships.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Florida
Network Administration Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Virginia
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Washington
Which Should You Choose?
- No state income tax advantage (5-7% salary boost)
- Access to growing tech hubs in Orlando, Miami, Tampa
- Year-round internship and job opportunities
- Affordable in-state tuition at quality public universities
- Strong industry partnerships with major employers
- Warm weather and outdoor lifestyle preferences
- Diverse tech sectors from aerospace to healthcare IT
- Higher absolute salaries (California, Washington pay 20-30% more nominally)
- More established tech ecosystems with deeper specialization options
- Stronger venture capital and startup scenes
- More prestigious university brands for competitive positions
- Better public transportation systems in major metros
- More diverse climate options and seasonal variety
- Established tech talent pipelines at major corporations
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Network Administration Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Network Administration degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific network administration salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Network Administration Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment data, and tuition costs for 2023
May 2024 state occupational employment and wage estimates
Career outcomes and job placement data for state university graduates
Partner institution data and certification program information
Industry certification standards and partnership program details
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.